Couples starting new, optimal relationships need rubber (8)

I believe the answer is:

neoprene

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'rubber' is the definition.
(I know that neoprene is a type of rubber)

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for neoprene that I've seen before include "Synthetic like rubber" , "Synthetic polymer; none peer (anag.)" , "Synthetic rubber - ne'er open (anag)" , "Synthetic rubber-like polymer" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.

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